Canadian Silver Bullion Round featuring Queen Elizabeth II D.G. REGINA
Coin/Bullion · Unknown private mint or boutique silver refiner; not an official Royal Canadian Mint legal tender coin. Private mints often use the monarch's profile for commemorative rounds.
Pattern: Commemorative Monarchy Series; generic bullion round design, likely mimicking motifs found on Canadian coinage.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Unknown private mint or boutique silver refiner; not an official Royal Canadian Mint legal tender coin. Private mints often use the monarch's profile for commemorative rounds.
Material
Likely .999 Fine Silver (Bullion Grade). Lacks the copper alloy found in circulation currency; shows characteristic silver oxidation (tarnish).
Dimensions
Diameter: Approximately 38-40mm (standard for 1 oz silver rounds). Estimated weight: 31.1 grams (1 Troy Ounce).
Description
A lustrous silver bullion round paying homage to Canadian numismatic history. The obverse depicts a mature Queen Elizabeth II, a symbol of stability and tradition. Unlike government-issued coins, this piece is valued strictly for its precious metal content, making it a favorite for 'stackers' and silver investors.
Key Features
D.G. REGINA inscription, Elizabeth II Effigy, mirror-to-satin contrast, and 'Canada' identifier.
Material & Composition
Likely .999 Fine Silver (Bullion Grade). Lacks the copper alloy found in circulation currency; shows characteristic silver oxidation (tarnish).
Finish & Decoration
High-relief die-struck finish with proof-like or satin fields. Features the right-facing effigy of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Decorative rim with inscriptions.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'D.G. REGINA' (By the Grace of God, Queen) and 'CANADA'. Usually, the reverse would contain the weight (e.g., '1 TROY OZ') and purity ('.999 FINE SILVER'). No official Canadian denomination (e.g., '5 DOLLARS') is visible, confirming it as bullion.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck using heavy industrial presses. The sharp edges and raised relief indicate a striking process typical of modern bullion manufacturing.
Functional Features
Investment vehicle for silver bullion; portable store of wealth. Reeded or smooth edge depending on factory specification.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld item designed for stacking or capsule storage.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-quality steel dies. The detail in the tiara and the sharp lettering indicates a professional-grade strike with well-maintained equipment.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck lettering clarity, natural progression of silver sulfide tarnish, and thickness consistent with standard 1oz silver planchets. Would require a 'ping test' or Sigma metal analyzer for 100% confirmation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada (based on iconography and text), likely produced by a private refinery or local minting facility specializing in silver rounds.
Era & Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century; modern era commemorative bullion production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2022. The specific portrait style is based on the 1990-2002 Canadian circulation portrait design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of silver from a circulate medium of exchange to a private investment asset. It reflects the enduring presence of the British Monarchy in Canadian culture.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Shows significant surface oxidation (tarnish) and minor contact marks/bag marks. The tarnish is uneven, suggesting it was handled without gloves or exposed to moisture.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $35.00 USD (based on current silver spot price + small premium for physical silver).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic dips. Store in an airtight acrylic capsule to prevent further oxidation. If removing tarnish, use a mild silver dip but be aware that 'cleaning' a round can sometimes reduce secondary market appeal to collectors.
Similar Pieces
Royal Canadian Mint Silver Maple Leaf (which has a face value of 5 Dollars), Sunshine Minting Silver Rounds, or Johnson Matthey silver bars.
Interesting Facts
The 'D.G. Regina' title has appeared on Canadian coins since the reign of Queen Victoria. Private rounds like this are often minted when demand for official Royal Canadian Mint Silver Maples exceeds supply.